Consider the following statements regarding Micro-enterprise promotion through Start-up Village Entrepreneurship Programme (SVEP):
1. The SVEP initiative operates under the administrative oversight of the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and utilizes the existing SHG network established in 2011.
2. The National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj serves as the national resource organization for SVEP and conducts the annual audit of SHG bank linkages.
3. The Start-up Village Entrepreneurship Programme was launched in 2016 as a sub-scheme under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 3 is correct as SVEP was launched in 2016 as a sub-scheme under the DAY-NRLM to support rural entrepreneurs. Statement 1 is incorrect because SVEP is implemented under the Ministry of Rural Development, not the Ministry of MSME. Statement 2 is incorrect because while the National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRDPR) is the national resource organization for SVEP, it does not conduct the annual audit of SHG bank linkages, which is a function overseen by the banking sector and NRLM monitoring frameworks.
Consider the following statements regarding Micro-enterprise promotion through Start-up Village Entrepreneurship Programme (SVEP):
1. The implementation of SVEP involves the preparation of a Detailed Project Report which outlines the local resource mapping and potential enterprise sectors.
2. The SVEP framework incorporates the Interest Subvention Scheme to provide loans at a reduced rate of 4 percent for rural manufacturing units registered under the Udyam portal.
3. Under the SVEP guidelines, the seed capital fund is distributed through the District Rural Development Agency to individual entrepreneurs who have completed three years of SHG membership.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as SVEP mandates a Detailed Project Report (DPR) based on block-level resource mapping to identify viable local enterprise opportunities. Statement 2 is incorrect because SVEP does not utilize the Interest Subvention Scheme for Udyam-registered units; instead, it provides seed capital support to entrepreneurs through a dedicated Community Enterprise Fund (CEF). Statement 3 is incorrect because the seed capital is managed by the Block Resource Centre (BRC) or the Village Organization, not the District Rural Development Agency, and it is not contingent upon a mandatory three-year SHG membership.
Consider the following statements regarding Financial inclusion indicators: Savings, credit, and insurance penetration in SHGs:
1. The Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana, launched in 2011, serves as the primary mechanism for SHG credit disbursement, replacing the earlier Swarnajayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana structure.
2. The interest subvention scheme under NRLM provides an additional 3% reduction on credit for SHGs in 250 identified backward districts, provided the group maintains a minimum of 80% repayment rate.
3. The NRLM guidelines suggest that SHG members utilize the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana for savings, which allows for a maximum deposit limit of Rs. 50,000 in basic savings bank deposit accounts.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the NRLM (National Rural Livelihood Mission) replaced the Swarnajayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana, while Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana is a sub-component of NRLM focused on sustainable agriculture, not a credit disbursement mechanism. Statement 2 is incorrect as the interest subvention scheme under NRLM provides a 3% reduction for all women SHGs across the country on prompt repayment, not restricted to 250 districts. Statement 3 is incorrect because while PMJDY is encouraged, there is no maximum deposit limit of Rs. 50,000 for basic savings bank deposit accounts, as these accounts are subject to RBI's KYC-based transaction and balance limits rather than a fixed cap.
Consider the following statements regarding Role of Bank Sakhis and Business Correspondent (BC) Sakhis in financial inclusion:
1. As of the 2023-24 financial year, the Ministry of Rural Development reported that over 1.5 lakh Bank Sakhis have been deployed across various states to facilitate credit linkage and loan repayment tracking for SHGs.
2. The Reserve Bank of India guidelines allow SHG members acting as Business Correspondent Sakhis to provide basic banking services, including cash deposits and withdrawals, using Aadhaar-enabled Payment Systems (AePS).
3. Under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM), the Bank Sakhi model was formally scaled up in 2018 to bridge the last-mile connectivity gap between rural SHG members and commercial bank branches.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
All three statements are correct: Statement 1 is accurate as the Ministry of Rural Development has actively scaled up the deployment of Bank Sakhis to over 1.5 lakh to enhance credit linkage and financial monitoring for SHGs. Statement 2 is correct because RBI guidelines permit SHG members to function as Business Correspondent Sakhis, enabling them to deliver doorstep banking services like AePS-based transactions to rural populations. Statement 3 is correct as the Bank Sakhi model was institutionalized under DAY-NRLM in 2018 to address the geographical and procedural barriers between rural SHG members and formal banking institutions.
Consider the following statements regarding Convergence of NRLM with MGNREGA for livelihood diversification:
1. Under the convergence framework, SHG members are prioritized for individual beneficiary schemes under MGNREGA, such as the construction of cattle sheds or vermicompost pits.
2. The Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM) was launched by the Ministry of Rural Development in June 2011 to reduce poverty through promotion of diversified self-employment.
3. The MGNREGA Act of 2005 includes provisions for the establishment of the National Rural Livelihood Mission, which provides the primary funding mechanism for SHG revolving funds since its inception.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the convergence framework facilitates SHG members' access to individual beneficiary assets under MGNREGA to enhance sustainable livelihoods. Statement 2 is correct because DAY-NRLM was launched by the Ministry of Rural Development in June 2011 to alleviate rural poverty through institutional support and self-employment. Statement 3 is incorrect because the MGNREGA Act, 2005 focuses on the right to work and wage employment, and it does not contain provisions for establishing the NRLM, which is a separate mission-mode program.
Consider the following statements regarding Grading and audit protocols for SHG internal financial management:
1. The 'Swayamsiddha' portal serves as the primary digital interface for SHGs to upload their quarterly balance sheets, which are then validated by the Block Development Officer to determine eligibility for the second round of credit linkage.
2. The 2016 guidelines for SHG-Bank Linkage specify that groups maintaining a savings account for over twelve months qualify for an automatic credit rating upgrade by the Reserve Bank of India's regional inspection teams.
3. The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) conducts the annual statutory audit for all SHGs under the NRLM, providing a verified financial certificate that is submitted to the District Rural Development Agency.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
All statements are incorrect: The 'Swayamsiddha' portal is not the primary interface for SHG financial audits under NRLM, which instead utilizes the 'Lakhpati SHG' and 'NRLM MIS' platforms for data tracking. There is no provision for an automatic credit rating upgrade by RBI inspection teams for SHGs, as credit linkage is determined by banks based on internal grading norms like the 'Panchasutra'. Furthermore, NABARD does not conduct statutory audits for individual SHGs; internal audits are primarily managed by the SHGs themselves through bookkeepers or community resource persons, while external audits are typically conducted by chartered accountants or designated agencies at the federated level.
Consider the following statements regarding Social audit mechanisms within SHG institutional architecture:
1. The 'Panchayat-SHG Convergence' model introduced in 2015 encourages Gram Sabhas to include SHG audit reports as a standing agenda item during quarterly social audit exercises.
2. The 2011 NRLM Framework for Implementation emphasizes the role of the 'Social Audit Committee' in verifying the selection criteria of beneficiaries under the Mission Antyodaya survey.
3. The NRLM institutional architecture utilizes the 'Internal Audit' mechanism, where members from neighboring SHGs verify the book-keeping practices of a peer group to enhance financial accountability.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the 2015 convergence guidelines mandate Gram Sabhas to review SHG performance, including financial audits, to ensure transparency and local accountability. Statement 2 is correct because the NRLM framework integrates Social Audit Committees to validate beneficiary lists, ensuring the Mission Antyodaya survey accurately identifies the most vulnerable households. Statement 3 is correct as the NRLM institutional design promotes 'Internal Audit' or 'Peer Review' systems, where members from neighboring SHGs cross-verify financial records to foster mutual trust and financial discipline.
Consider the following statements regarding Micro-enterprise promotion through Start-up Village Entrepreneurship Programme (SVEP):
1. The Community Resource Person for Enterprise Promotion acts as the primary field-level cadre to provide business support services to rural entrepreneurs.
2. As of the 2022-23 reporting cycle, the SVEP framework covers more than 230 blocks across various states and union territories in India.
3. The Ministry of Rural Development provides financial support to SVEP blocks for a period of 48 months to ensure the sustainability of local enterprises.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the Community Resource Person for Enterprise Promotion (CRP-EP) is the key field-level cadre trained under SVEP to provide end-to-end business support to rural entrepreneurs. Statement 2 is correct because, as of the 2022-23 reporting cycle, SVEP has been successfully implemented across more than 230 blocks in various states and UTs to foster local entrepreneurship. Statement 3 is correct because the Ministry of Rural Development provides financial support to each SVEP block for a duration of 48 months, which is specifically designed to ensure the stabilization and sustainability of local enterprises.
Consider the following statements regarding Community Resource Persons (CRP) role in social mobilization:
1. The 'Bank Sakhi' model, a specialized role within the CRP framework, focuses on providing financial literacy and assisting SHG members in accessing credit services from commercial banks under the NRLM umbrella.
2. Under the 2015 NRLM restructuring, the District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) serves as the primary hiring authority for CRPs, and it provides for the automatic induction of these personnel into the permanent state civil service cadre.
3. The Ministry of Rural Development guidelines specify that a Community Resource Person (CRP) is expected to facilitate the formation of at least 10 to 15 new Self Help Groups during their intensive social mobilization drives.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as 'Bank Sakhis' are trained CRPs who act as intermediaries between SHGs and banks to bridge the financial inclusion gap. Statement 3 is correct because NRLM guidelines mandate CRPs to perform intensive social mobilization, typically targeting the formation and stabilization of 10-15 SHGs in their assigned clusters. Statement 2 is incorrect because CRPs are community-based volunteers or para-professionals selected by the community itself, not by the DRDA, and they do not receive automatic induction into the permanent state civil service cadre.
Consider the following statements regarding Interest subvention norms for SHGs in aspirational districts:
1. The Aspirational Districts Programme, launched in January 2018, covers 112 districts and provides a uniform interest subvention of 5% for all SHGs operating within these geographical boundaries.
2. The DAY-NRLM framework includes provisions for the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development to disburse interest subvention funds directly to individual SHG members via the Jan Dhan-Aadhaar-Mobile trinity.
3. Under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-NRLM, women SHGs in 250 identified aspirational districts are eligible for an additional interest subvention of 3% on prompt repayment of loans up to ₹3 lakh.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 3 is correct as women SHGs in identified aspirational districts receive an additional 3% interest subvention on prompt repayment of loans up to ₹3 lakh under DAY-NRLM. Statement 1 is incorrect because the Aspirational Districts Programme covers 112 districts, but there is no uniform 5% interest subvention for all SHGs; subvention rates vary based on prompt repayment and specific scheme guidelines. Statement 2 is incorrect because interest subvention funds are disbursed by the Ministry of Rural Development to banks, which then credit the amount to the SHG's loan account, not directly to individual members via the JAM trinity.
Consider the following statements regarding Interest subvention norms for SHGs in aspirational districts:
1. Under the revised NRLM norms of 2020, the interest subvention amount is calculated based on the outstanding loan balance at the end of each financial quarter rather than the actual interest charged by the lending bank.
2. The Aspirational Districts Transformation Index serves as the primary metric for determining the eligibility of SHGs for interest subvention, with districts ranking in the top 50 receiving an additional 2% incentive.
3. The interest subvention scheme is applicable to all SHGs linked with commercial banks, including those operating under the Swarnajayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana, which was the precursor to the current NRLM.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because interest subvention is calculated on the basis of the actual interest charged by the lending bank on the outstanding loan balance, not as a flat rate based on quarterly balances. Statement 2 is false as there is no 'Aspirational Districts Transformation Index' used for SHG interest subvention eligibility; the scheme is uniformly applicable to all women SHGs under DAY-NRLM in all districts. Statement 3 is incorrect because the interest subvention scheme is specifically designed for SHGs under DAY-NRLM, and while legacy SHGs under SGSY are now part of the NRLM fold, the subvention norms do not extend to all commercial bank-linked SHGs indiscriminately, but rather those meeting specific NRLM compliance criteria.
Consider the following statements regarding Gender-sensitive budgeting and resource allocation in NRLM implementation:
1. The NRLM Gender Action Plan (GAP) of 2017 provides for the inclusion of male family members in SHG meetings to ensure household-level financial literacy, and it is funded through the Ministry of Women and Child Development's annual budget.
2. The National Rural Economic Transformation Project (NRETP) was initiated in 2019 with World Bank assistance, and it focuses on digital financial inclusion by providing a fixed universal basic income grant to every SHG member.
3. The 2015-16 NRLM institutional restructuring introduced the Community Resource Person (CRP) model, which allows state governments to divert up to 15% of the central grant toward infrastructure development in district-level training centers.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the NRLM Gender Action Plan focuses on empowering women within SHGs rather than mandating male inclusion, and it is funded by the Ministry of Rural Development, not the Ministry of Women and Child Development. Statement 2 is incorrect because while NRETP (2019) promotes digital financial inclusion, it does not provide a universal basic income grant, focusing instead on enterprise promotion and access to formal finance. Statement 3 is incorrect as the CRP model is a core pillar of NRLM's social capital strategy for community-led capacity building, and there is no provision allowing states to divert 15% of central grants for district-level infrastructure development.
Consider the following statements regarding Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP) and sustainable agriculture:
1. Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana was launched in 2011 as a sub-component of the National Rural Livelihood Mission to improve the participation of women in agriculture.
2. Under the MKSP guidelines, the funding pattern between the Centre and the States is maintained at a ratio of 60:40 for general category states.
3. The Ministry of Rural Development provides financial support under MKSP to promote agro-ecological practices such as non-pesticide management and system of crop intensification.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
MKSP was launched in 2011 as a sub-component of the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) to empower women in agriculture through systematic investment. The funding pattern for NRLM and its sub-components like MKSP follows the standard 60:40 ratio between the Centre and States for general category states, ensuring shared financial responsibility. Furthermore, the Ministry of Rural Development actively promotes sustainable agro-ecological practices, including Non-Pesticide Management (NPM) and the System of Crop Intensification (SCI), to enhance the productivity and income of women farmers.
Consider the following statements regarding Impact of NRLM on women's political agency and local governance participation:
1. The 2017 Ministry of Rural Development notification refers to the integration of SHG federations into the State Election Commission, which allows these groups to nominate candidates for local body elections.
2. The Aajeevika Skills Development Programme is associated with the 2013 National Food Security Act, which provides for the creation of women-led village committees to monitor the distribution of public food grains.
3. Data from the 2021-22 Ministry of Rural Development reports indicate that over 8 crore women have been mobilized into more than 75 lakh Self Help Groups across various Indian states.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 3 is correct as Ministry of Rural Development reports confirm that under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-NRLM, over 8 crore women have been mobilized into more than 75 lakh SHGs to promote financial inclusion. Statement 1 is incorrect because there is no such notification allowing SHG federations to nominate candidates for local body elections, as political representation is governed by the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Aajeevika Skills Development Programme focuses on wage employment and skill training, whereas the monitoring of public food grains under the National Food Security Act is primarily the mandate of Vigilance Committees established under the Public Distribution System (Control) Order, 2001.
Consider the following statements regarding NRLM vs. SJSRY: Institutional evolution and shift in focus:
1. The NRLM framework adopts the community-based resource person model, which was originally piloted under the 1997 SJSRY guidelines to improve urban credit linkages.
2. Under the NRLM, the interest subvention scheme provides a 7% reduction in interest rates for SHGs, a feature that was first introduced in the 1999 Swarnajayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana.
3. The SJSRY utilized the District Rural Development Agency as the primary implementing body, mirroring the administrative structure later adopted by the National Rural Livelihoods Mission.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the community-based resource person model is a hallmark of the NRLM's social capital strategy, not an SJSRY pilot. Statement 2 is incorrect as the interest subvention scheme was specifically introduced under NRLM (2011) to incentivize prompt repayment, whereas SGSY (1999) focused on a subsidy-linked credit model rather than interest subvention. Statement 3 is incorrect because SJSRY was an urban-focused scheme implemented through Urban Local Bodies, whereas NRLM shifted the focus from the District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) model to dedicated professional implementation structures like the State Rural Livelihood Missions.
Consider the following statements regarding NRLM's Aajeevika Skills Development Programme (ASDP) framework:
1. The Aajeevika Skills Development Programme was launched in 2011 as a sub-component of the National Rural Livelihood Mission, and it provides for a fixed training duration of 12 months for all technical vocational courses.
2. Under the DDU-GKY guidelines, the age group eligible for skill development training is set between 15 and 35 years for the general population.
3. The Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY) operates under the Aajeevika Skills Development Programme framework to provide placement-linked skill training for rural youth.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the Aajeevika Skills Development Programme (ASDP) does not mandate a fixed 12-month duration; instead, training periods are flexible and vary based on the specific trade and curriculum requirements. Statement 2 is correct as DDU-GKY targets rural youth aged 15-35 years, with a relaxation up to 45 years for women, SC/ST, and PwD candidates. Statement 3 is correct because DDU-GKY was launched in 2014 as a core component of the NRLM framework to provide market-led, placement-linked skill training to rural poor youth.
Consider the following statements regarding Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana (DAY-NRLM) funding structure and central-state ratios:
1. The National Rural Economic Transformation Project, supported by the World Bank, encompasses the funding structure for DAY-NRLM and utilizes a 100 percent central grant mechanism for all participating states to ensure uniform implementation.
2. The Ministry of Rural Development launched the Aajeevika-National Rural Livelihoods Mission in June 2011, which was later rebranded as Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana in 2016.
3. The Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana integrates the National Urban Livelihoods Mission, which follows a 60:40 funding ratio for all states except for the National Capital Territory of Delhi, which receives a 90:10 ratio.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 2 is correct as the Ministry of Rural Development launched the NRLM in June 2011, which was rebranded as DAY-NRLM in 2016. Statement 1 is incorrect because the funding for DAY-NRLM follows a 60:40 ratio between the Centre and States (90:10 for North Eastern and Himalayan states), not a 100 percent central grant. Statement 3 is incorrect because while DAY-NULM follows a 60:40 ratio for most states, the funding ratio for the National Capital Territory of Delhi is 90:10, but the statement incorrectly implies this is the only exception, ignoring the specific ratios applicable to North Eastern and Himalayan states.
Consider the following statements regarding Digital financial literacy initiatives for SHG members:
1. The 'e-Shakti' project, initiated by NABARD in 2015, focuses on the digitization of SHG records and allows for the automatic disbursement of micro-credit through the Unified Payments Interface.
2. The National Rural Economic Transformation Project, funded by the World Bank in 2019, includes provisions for the direct transfer of SHG revolving funds through the Bharat Bill Payment System.
3. The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana provides the foundational framework for the NRLM digital literacy drive, which was formally inaugurated by the Ministry of Finance in 2014 to cover all SHG bank accounts.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because while e-Shakti digitizes SHG records to facilitate credit linkage, it does not enable automatic disbursement via UPI. Statement 2 is incorrect as the National Rural Economic Transformation Project (NRETP) focuses on enterprise promotion and value chain development, not the transfer of revolving funds through the Bharat Bill Payment System. Statement 3 is incorrect because the NRLM digital literacy drive is spearheaded by the Ministry of Rural Development, and PMJDY serves as a financial inclusion tool rather than the formal framework for the ministry's specific digital literacy initiatives.
Consider the following statements regarding Grading and audit protocols for SHG internal financial management:
1. The NRLM MIS (Management Information System) captures data on SHG financial health, where groups are categorized based on their ability to maintain savings-to-credit ratios and timely repayment schedules.
2. As per the Ministry of Rural Development, the 'Bank Linkage' status of an SHG is often contingent upon the group achieving an 'A' grade in the internal audit conducted by the community-based resource persons.
3. The grading of SHGs is conducted by the Village Organizations (VOs) or Cluster Level Federations (CLFs) using a standardized scorecard that evaluates financial discipline and institutional maturity.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
All three statements are correct as they align with the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) framework. Statement 1 is accurate because the NRLM MIS tracks financial health indicators like savings, internal lending, and repayment to determine group eligibility for revolving funds and bank credit. Statement 2 is correct as the Ministry mandates that SHGs must demonstrate institutional maturity, verified through internal audits by community resource persons, to qualify for formal bank linkage. Statement 3 is correct because the grading process is decentralized, where Village Organizations (VOs) or Cluster Level Federations (CLFs) utilize a standardized 'SHG Grading Tool' to assess financial discipline, democratic functioning, and record-keeping before recommending groups for credit.
Consider the following statements regarding NRLM's Aajeevika Skills Development Programme (ASDP) framework:
1. The programme architecture includes a mandatory provision for the placement of at least 70 percent of the trained candidates in wage employment.
2. The Kaushal Bharat portal serves as the centralized digital platform for monitoring the progress of training centers and tracking candidate placement data.
3. The DDU-GKY framework incorporates a 'Captive Employment' model where industry partners train candidates specifically for their own organizational requirements.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the DDU-GKY guidelines mandate a minimum 70% placement rate for trained candidates to ensure employability. Statement 2 is correct because the Kaushal Bharat portal (integrated with the DDU-GKY MIS) acts as the official digital infrastructure for real-time monitoring and placement tracking. Statement 3 is correct as the 'Captive Employment' model was introduced under the DDU-GKY framework to allow industry partners to train candidates specifically for their internal organizational needs, ensuring immediate job absorption.
Consider the following statements regarding SHG-Bank Linkage Programme (SBLP) credit disbursement mechanisms:
1. The NRLM mission document includes provisions for the creation of a National Credit Guarantee Fund that covers 50% of the default risk on loans issued to SHGs by private sector banks.
2. State Rural Livelihood Missions utilize the VLR (Village Level Resource) portal to monitor SHG credit flow, which was launched by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj in 2014.
3. Credit disbursement under the SBLP is governed by the 2005 guidelines which permit SHGs to maintain savings accounts with Post Office branches for direct benefit transfers.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the Credit Guarantee Fund for Micro Units (CGFMU) is managed by NCGTC, not NRLM, and covers loans under PMMY, not specifically SHGs via private banks. Statement 2 is incorrect as SHG credit flow is monitored via the 'Bank-Sakhi' portal and the NRLM MIS, not a 'VLR portal' launched by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj. Statement 3 is incorrect because while SHGs can hold accounts in Post Offices, SBLP credit disbursement is primarily governed by RBI's Master Circulars on SHG-Bank Linkage, not 2005 guidelines focused on DBT.
Consider the following statements regarding Financial inclusion indicators: Savings, credit, and insurance penetration in SHGs:
1. Under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-NRLM, the revolving fund is provided to SHGs that have been in existence for at least three months and maintain regular books of accounts.
2. The Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana provides accidental death and disability cover of Rs. 2 lakh, which is accessible to SHG members as part of the financial inclusion strategy under the NRLM framework.
3. As of the 2023-24 fiscal data, the Bank Linkage Programme for SHGs has facilitated credit access for over 70 lakh groups, contributing to the institutional credit penetration targets set by the Ministry of Rural Development.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as NRLM guidelines mandate a minimum of three months of existence and regular bookkeeping for SHGs to receive a Revolving Fund (RF) of Rs. 10,000-15,000. Statement 2 is correct because the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) offers Rs. 2 lakh coverage for accidental death/disability, which is actively promoted among SHG members under the DAY-NRLM's financial inclusion mandate. Statement 3 is correct as official Ministry of Rural Development data confirms that the SHG-Bank Linkage Programme has successfully brought over 70 lakh SHGs into the formal credit fold as of the 2023-24 period, significantly boosting rural financial penetration.
Consider the following statements regarding Social audit mechanisms within SHG institutional architecture:
1. Under the NRLM guidelines, the Community Resource Persons (CRPs) are tasked with facilitating the periodic review of financial records maintained by Self Help Groups during the monthly cluster-level meetings.
2. The Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) framework promotes the 'Social Audit' process to ensure transparency in the utilization of revolving funds at the Village Organization level.
3. The 2013 National Food Security Act provides for the mandatory inclusion of SHG representatives in the District Grievance Redressal Officer's office, and this structure serves as the primary appellate body for all SHG-related social audit disputes.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as NRLM guidelines mandate CRPs to support SHGs in maintaining transparent financial records, which are reviewed at cluster-level meetings to ensure accountability. Statement 2 is correct because DAY-NRLM emphasizes social audits at the Village Organization (VO) level to ensure the revolving fund is utilized effectively and transparently by the community. Statement 3 is incorrect because the National Food Security Act, 2013, focuses on food security and PDS transparency, not the governance of SHG social audit disputes, which are typically addressed through internal VO/Cluster-level grievance mechanisms or NRLM-specific institutional structures.
Consider the following statements regarding Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana (DAY-NRLM) funding structure and central-state ratios:
1. The Start-up Village Entrepreneurship Programme, initiated in 2014, functions as an independent vertical under the DAY-NRLM framework and maintains a 50:50 funding split between the central government and the implementing non-governmental organizations.
2. Under the provisions of the 2016 restructuring, the Union Territories without legislatures receive funding for NRLM activities through a 75:25 ratio shared between the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Rural Development.
3. The Interest Subvention Scheme under DAY-NRLM provides a uniform 7 percent interest rate to all SHGs across the country, with the central government providing the difference to banks through the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because SVEP is a sub-scheme of DAY-NRLM with a funding ratio shared between the Centre and States (typically 60:40), not NGOs. Statement 2 is incorrect as the funding for Union Territories without legislatures is 100% centrally funded by the Ministry of Rural Development, not a 75:25 split. Statement 3 is incorrect because the interest subvention is not a uniform 7 percent for all; rather, the Centre provides subvention on bank loans up to ₹3 lakh at 7% per annum, covering the difference between the bank's lending rate and 7% (capped at a specific percentage), and it is implemented in two categories (Category-I and Category-II districts) rather than being uniform nationwide.
Consider the following statements regarding Role of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRI) in SHG-VO (Village Organization) coordination:
1. As per the 2017 guidelines of the Ministry of Rural Development, the Gram Panchayat is expected to provide space for the VO office or community resource center within the Panchayat Bhawan premises.
2. The NRLM institutional architecture facilitates the inclusion of the SHG-VO representatives in the Social Audit committees of the Gram Panchayat to enhance transparency in the implementation of MGNREGA.
3. Under the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, the Gram Panchayats are empowered to prepare plans for economic development and social justice, which often incorporates the livelihood micro-plans generated by the SHG-VO network.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the MoRD guidelines under DAY-NRLM mandate PRIs to provide physical space to VOs to foster institutional convergence. Statement 2 is correct because the NRLM framework promotes the participation of SHG-VO members in Gram Sabhas and social audit committees to ensure accountability in flagship schemes like MGNREGA. Statement 3 is correct as the 73rd Constitutional Amendment empowers Panchayats to prepare 'Plans for Economic Development and Social Justice' (Article 243G), which are now systematically integrated with the participatory micro-plans developed by SHG networks to ensure bottom-up planning.
Consider the following statements regarding Digital financial literacy initiatives for SHG members:
1. The 'Digitally Empowered SHG' campaign launched in 2022 aims to train 10 million women members in basic digital financial transactions by the end of the 2024-25 fiscal year.
2. Under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-NRLM, the 'Bank Sakhi' initiative facilitates doorstep banking services, with over 75,000 Bank Sakhis currently active across various rural districts.
3. The 'Digi-Pay Sakhi' program, introduced by the Ministry of Rural Development in 2020, allows SHG members to earn commissions on utility bill payments and is managed by the Reserve Bank of India.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the 'Digitally Empowered SHG' campaign was launched in 2022 to enhance the digital financial literacy of 10 million SHG women by FY 2024-25. Statement 2 is correct because the 'Bank Sakhi' initiative under DAY-NRLM deploys trained SHG members to provide doorstep banking services, with over 75,000 currently active. Statement 3 is incorrect because the 'Digi-Pay Sakhi' program is managed by the Ministry of Rural Development in partnership with Common Service Centres (CSC), not the Reserve Bank of India.
Consider the following statements regarding Interest subvention norms for SHGs in aspirational districts:
1. The guidelines for the interest subvention scheme state that SHGs with a credit history of at least 24 months are eligible for the additional 3% subvention provided they maintain a non-performing asset ratio below 2%.
2. The Ministry of Rural Development provides interest subvention to SHGs to ensure that the effective rate of interest on bank credit does not exceed 7% per annum for loans up to ₹3 lakh.
3. The interest subvention scheme for SHGs in aspirational districts is administered by the Ministry of Finance, which allocates specific budgetary grants under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 2 is correct because the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) provides interest subvention to keep the effective interest rate at 7% for loans up to ₹3 lakh. Statement 1 is incorrect because the additional 3% subvention is provided to SHGs that are prompt in repayment, not based on a 2% NPA ratio threshold. Statement 3 is incorrect because the scheme is administered by the Ministry of Rural Development, not the Ministry of Finance, and it is funded under DAY-NRLM rather than the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana.
Consider the following statements regarding Convergence of NRLM with MGNREGA for livelihood diversification:
1. The 'Aajeevika' mission encourages the use of SHG-managed community resource persons to facilitate the planning of MGNREGA works at the Gram Panchayat level.
2. The Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP), a sub-component of NRLM, integrates MGNREGA labor budgets to support land development activities for women farmers.
3. Data from the Ministry of Rural Development indicates that over 1.5 crore SHG households have been linked to MGNREGA job cards to ensure supplementary income during agricultural lean seasons.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as NRLM utilizes Community Resource Persons (CRPs) to ensure SHG-led demand generation for MGNREGA works, aligning with the mission's goal of participatory planning. Statement 2 is correct because MKSP promotes sustainable agriculture by leveraging MGNREGA funds for individual land development, such as farm ponds and land leveling, specifically for women farmers. Statement 3 is correct as the Ministry of Rural Development has actively promoted the convergence of SHG networks with MGNREGA, resulting in over 1.5 crore households accessing job cards to provide a vital social safety net during seasonal unemployment.
Consider the following statements regarding Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP) and sustainable agriculture:
1. The National Rural Livelihood Mission incorporates the Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana to provide direct interest subvention on agricultural loans to individual women farmers registered under the scheme.
2. The MKSP framework is administered by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, which allocates resources directly to Gram Panchayats for the implementation of organic farming clusters.
3. The MKSP initiative was introduced during the 12th Five-Year Plan period to replace the existing Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, focusing on the promotion of sustainable livestock management among SHG members.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
All three statements are incorrect because the Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP) is a sub-component of the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM) under the Ministry of Rural Development, not the Ministry of Agriculture, and it focuses on empowering women in agriculture through sustainable practices rather than providing direct interest subvention on loans. Furthermore, MKSP was launched in 2011 as a dedicated scheme to enhance the participation of women in agriculture, not as a replacement for the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, nor does it allocate resources directly to Gram Panchayats for organic clusters.
Consider the following statements regarding Convergence of NRLM with MGNREGA for livelihood diversification:
1. As of the 2023-24 fiscal year, the NRLM guidelines suggest that SHG clusters act as social auditors for MGNREGA worksites to improve transparency in wage payments.
2. The 2013 convergence circular issued by the Department of Land Resources allows SHG federations to directly approve MGNREGA shelf-of-projects, bypassing the Gram Sabha approval process.
3. The 2018 operational framework for convergence allows SHG members to serve as mates at MGNREGA worksites, providing them with technical oversight roles in rural infrastructure projects.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as NRLM guidelines actively encourage SHG members to participate in social audits to enhance transparency and accountability in MGNREGA implementation. Statement 3 is correct because the 2018 framework specifically mandates the engagement of SHG members as 'mates' to ensure better supervision and livelihood opportunities for women. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Gram Sabha remains the supreme authority for approving the shelf-of-projects under the MGNREGA Act, 2005, and no administrative circular can bypass this statutory requirement.
Consider the following statements regarding SHG-Bank Linkage Programme (SBLP) credit disbursement mechanisms:
1. The RBI introduced the SHG-Bank Linkage Programme in 1996 to facilitate direct credit access for rural cooperatives through the District Rural Development Agencies.
2. The Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-NRLM replaced the Swarnajayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana in 2011 and shifted the primary credit disbursement responsibility to the Ministry of Finance.
3. NABARD provides 100% refinance support to commercial banks for loans extended to SHGs under the SBLP, which is managed through the Priority Sector Lending certificates.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the SHG-Bank Linkage Programme was launched by NABARD in 1992, not 1996, and it facilitates credit directly to SHGs rather than through District Rural Development Agencies. Statement 2 is incorrect as DAY-NRLM, launched in 2011, is implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development, and credit disbursement remains a banking function under Priority Sector Lending rather than a direct responsibility of the Ministry of Finance. Statement 3 is incorrect because while NABARD provides refinance support to banks, it is not 100% for all loans, and the SBLP is not managed through Priority Sector Lending certificates, which are distinct market instruments for banks to meet their PSL targets.
Consider the following statements regarding Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana (DAY-NRLM) funding structure and central-state ratios:
1. The Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana is a sub-component of DAY-NRLM, which receives 100 percent of its financial allocation directly from the Union Budget without state-level matching contributions.
2. The North Eastern states, including Sikkim, and the three Himalayan states of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu and Kashmir, follow a funding pattern of 90:10 for the DAY-NRLM program.
3. The Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission operates with a funding ratio of 60:40 between the Central Government and the States for most Indian states.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect.
Statements 2 and 3 are correct because DAY-NRLM follows a 90:10 funding ratio for North Eastern and Himalayan states, while maintaining a 60:40 ratio for all other states. Statement 1 is incorrect because the Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP) is a sub-component of DAY-NRLM and follows the same funding pattern as the parent mission, rather than being 100% centrally funded.
Consider the following statements regarding Non-farm livelihood interventions and value chain development:
1. The Producer Enterprise Promotion (PEP) framework under NRLM encourages the formation of SHG-based companies, and it provides for a capital infusion of up to 50 lakh rupees for every registered farmer producer organization.
2. The Deendayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY) aims to transform rural youth into an economically independent workforce, and it currently targets the placement of 50 percent of its trainees in international markets.
3. The Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP) provides systematic support to enhance the agricultural productivity of women farmers by promoting sustainable non-timber forest produce collection.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 3 is correct as MKSP, a sub-component of NRLM, focuses on empowering women in agriculture and allied sectors, including sustainable non-timber forest produce collection. Statement 1 is incorrect because the PEP framework under NRLM provides a maximum capitalization support of up to 10 lakh rupees per Producer Enterprise, not 50 lakh rupees. Statement 2 is incorrect because DDU-GKY is primarily a placement-linked skill development program for rural youth within India, and it does not have a mandate or target for placing 50 percent of its trainees in international markets.
Consider the following statements regarding Impact of NRLM on women's political agency and local governance participation:
1. Under the NRLM guidelines, the Community Resource Persons (CRPs) are selected from the SHG member base to facilitate the convergence of government services at the Gram Panchayat level.
2. The Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana, a sub-component of NRLM launched in 2011, focuses on enhancing the role of women in agriculture by providing direct support for sustainable farming practices.
3. The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act provides for the reservation of one-third of seats for women in Panchayati Raj Institutions, a provision that aligns with the social mobilization objectives of the NRLM framework.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as NRLM leverages the social capital of SHG members by training them as Community Resource Persons (CRPs) to bridge the gap between rural households and Gram Panchayat services. Statement 2 is correct because the Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP), launched in 2011 as a sub-component of NRLM, specifically targets the empowerment of women in agriculture through sustainable farming support. Statement 3 is correct as the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act mandates at least one-third reservation for women in Panchayati Raj Institutions, which complements the NRLM's objective of creating a critical mass of socially mobilized women capable of participating in local governance.
Consider the following statements regarding Role of Bank Sakhis and Business Correspondent (BC) Sakhis in financial inclusion:
1. The 2011 NRLM guidelines introduced the BC Sakhi model to replace the existing network of rural post offices, shifting the responsibility of government benefit transfers directly to the SHG-led banking kiosks.
2. Under the 2022 Financial Inclusion Index, the Reserve Bank of India recognizes Bank Sakhis as Tier-1 banking officers, granting them the legal power to conduct independent audits of rural cooperative bank accounts.
3. Financial literacy training for Bank Sakhis is structured under the 'Financial Literacy and Inclusion' component of NRLM, which utilizes the 'Swayamsiddha' module to standardize banking transaction protocols.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 3 is correct as the NRLM integrates financial literacy training through standardized modules like 'Swayamsiddha' to empower SHG members in managing banking protocols. Statement 1 is incorrect because the BC Sakhi model complements, rather than replaces, the existing rural post office network, which remains a critical pillar for last-mile delivery under the Department of Posts. Statement 2 is incorrect because the RBI does not classify Bank Sakhis as Tier-1 banking officers, nor do they possess the legal authority to conduct independent audits of cooperative banks; they function primarily as Business Correspondents facilitating basic banking services.
Consider the following statements regarding SHG-Bank Linkage Programme (SBLP) credit disbursement mechanisms:
1. The Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana functions as a sub-component of NRLM and provides direct collateral-free loans to individual women farmers through regional rural banks.
2. Under the NRLM framework, the Interest Subvention Scheme provides a 3% interest subvention to SHGs on prompt repayment of loans up to 3 lakh rupees.
3. The SHG-Bank Linkage Programme was initiated by NABARD in 1992 as a pilot project to link informal women's groups with the formal banking system.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP) is a sub-component of NRLM focused on empowering women in agriculture through capacity building and sustainable practices, not through direct collateral-free individual loans. Statement 2 is correct as the Interest Subvention Scheme under NRLM provides a 3% subvention on prompt repayment of loans up to ₹3 lakh to SHGs, with an additional subvention in selected districts to reduce the effective interest rate to 7%. Statement 3 is correct because NABARD launched the SHG-Bank Linkage Programme in 1992 as a pilot project to bridge the gap between the informal sector and formal banking, which has since become the world's largest microfinance program.
Consider the following statements regarding Non-farm livelihood interventions and value chain development:
1. The Van Dhan Vikas Yojana, initiated in 2018, focuses on value addition to minor forest produce and functions under the direct administrative control of the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises.
2. The Rural Self Employment Training Institutes (RSETIs) are managed by the Ministry of Rural Development in collaboration with lead banks, and they provide mandatory placement services for every trainee upon course completion.
3. The National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) was rebranded as DAY-NRLM in 2015, and it allocates 40 percent of its annual budget specifically for the development of urban industrial corridors.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the Van Dhan Vikas Yojana is implemented by TRIFED under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, not the Ministry of MSME. Statement 2 is incorrect as RSETIs, while supported by the Ministry of Rural Development and lead banks, focus on self-employment rather than mandatory placement services. Statement 3 is incorrect because NRLM was rebranded as DAY-NRLM in 2015, but it focuses on rural poverty alleviation and does not allocate 40 percent of its budget to urban industrial corridors.
Consider the following statements regarding NRLM vs. SJSRY: Institutional evolution and shift in focus:
1. The National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM) was launched by the Ministry of Rural Development in June 2011 to replace the Swarnajayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana.
2. Financial assistance under the SJSRY was disbursed through the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development, which continues to oversee the NRLM's revolving fund distribution.
3. The Swarna Jayanti Shahari Rozgar Yojana (SJSRY), initiated in 1997, focused on providing gainful employment to the urban unemployed and underemployed poor through self-employment ventures.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as NRLM was launched in June 2011 by the Ministry of Rural Development to restructure the SGSY, and Statement 3 is correct because SJSRY (1997) was specifically designed to address urban poverty through self-employment and wage employment. Statement 2 is incorrect because SJSRY was a Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation scheme (now DAY-NULM), and NRLM's revolving fund distribution is managed directly by the Ministry of Rural Development through banks, not by NABARD.
Consider the following statements regarding Social audit mechanisms within SHG institutional architecture:
1. The 'Vigilance Committee' at the Village Organization level, as per the NRLM advisory issued in 2018, holds the authority to cross-verify loan disbursement records against the bank passbooks of individual SHG members.
2. The 'Bookkeeper' position within the SHG structure is responsible for updating the 'Panchayat-level SHG database' which serves as a primary reference for the annual social audit conducted by the Block Mission Management Unit.
3. The 'Community Investment Fund' (CIF) provided to SHGs is subject to an annual social audit process where the utilization of funds is presented before the Gram Sabha for public validation.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Under the NRLM framework, the Vigilance Committee is empowered to ensure financial transparency by cross-verifying loan records, while the SHG bookkeeper maintains data in the MIS/database that facilitates the Block Mission Management Unit's social audit process. Furthermore, the Community Investment Fund (CIF) is a public resource under the NRLM, and its utilization is mandatorily subjected to public validation through the Gram Sabha to ensure grassroots accountability and social inclusion. All three statements accurately reflect the institutional governance and audit protocols established under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-NRLM guidelines.
Consider the following statements regarding Community Resource Persons (CRP) role in social mobilization:
1. Under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-NRLM, Community Resource Persons are typically selected from the cadre of experienced SHG members who have demonstrated success in internal lending and bookkeeping.
2. The National Rural Livelihood Mission includes provisions for the 'Krishi Sakhi' program, which operates under the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare to provide crop insurance subsidies directly to SHG members.
3. The Community Resource Person (CRP) initiative was launched under the 2011 Aajeevika framework, which provides for the direct payment of monthly salaries to CRPs by the Union Ministry of Finance to ensure financial independence.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct because the NRLM strategy relies on 'Internal CRPs'-experienced SHG members who mentor new groups based on their proven track record in financial management. Statement 2 is incorrect because while 'Krishi Sakhis' are trained under the NRLM-Agriculture convergence, they act as para-extension workers for sustainable farming practices, not as agents for crop insurance subsidies under the Department of Agriculture. Statement 3 is incorrect because CRPs are not government employees on the Union Ministry of Finance payroll; they are community-based service providers who receive honorariums or service charges from the SHGs or Village Organizations they serve, ensuring community-led sustainability rather than centralized state funding.
Consider the following statements regarding NRLM vs. SJSRY: Institutional evolution and shift in focus:
1. The transition from SJSRY to the National Urban Livelihoods Mission in 2013 incorporated the NRLM's specific focus on village-level federations and block-level resource centers.
2. The Swarnajayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana was restructured in 2004 to include the Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana, which eventually became a core component of the NRLM.
3. The 2011 NRLM guidelines emphasize the formation of SHGs through the banking correspondent model, a strategy previously utilized by the SJSRY to reach remote rural populations.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the transition from SJSRY to NULM focused on urban poverty alleviation, whereas village-level federations are specific to the rural-focused NRLM. Statement 2 is incorrect as the Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP) was launched in 2011 as a sub-component of the NRLM, not through the 2004 restructuring of the Swarnajayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana. Statement 3 is incorrect because the NRLM emphasizes the 'SHG-Bank Linkage' model rather than the banking correspondent model as a primary strategy, and SJSRY was an urban-centric scheme that did not target remote rural populations.
Consider the following statements regarding Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP) and sustainable agriculture:
1. Implementation of MKSP projects is carried out by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development, which monitors the adoption of climate-resilient seeds across all blocks covered by the NRLM.
2. The MKSP guidelines specify that the Community Resource Persons are trained by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research to facilitate the transition to chemical-free farming in tribal-dominated districts.
3. The Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana was formally merged with the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana in 2016 to provide insurance coverage for women farmers practicing sustainable agriculture.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
MKSP is a sub-component of the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-NRLM (DAY-NRLM) implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development, not NABARD, and it does not mandate climate-resilient seed monitoring across all blocks. Community Resource Persons (CRPs) under MKSP are trained through the NRLM ecosystem and state-level resource organizations rather than directly by ICAR, and the scheme has never been merged with the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana. Consequently, all three statements are factually incorrect as they misrepresent the administrative framework and the integration status of the scheme.
Consider the following statements regarding SHG federations: Cluster Level Federations (CLF) and Block Level Federations (BLF) governance:
1. Under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-NRLM, the Cluster Level Federation (CLF) typically comprises 15 to 20 Self Help Groups operating within a specific geographical cluster.
2. The Cluster Level Federation operates under the oversight of the District Rural Development Agency, which appoints the chairperson of the CLF executive committee during the annual general meeting.
3. The Block Level Federation (BLF) serves as the apex body for SHGs within a block and is registered under the Societies Registration Act of 1860 or the State Cooperative Societies Act.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as CLFs are typically formed by federating 15-20 SHGs to provide support and financial services at the cluster level. Statement 3 is correct because BLFs act as the apex body for SHGs in a block and are legally registered under the Societies Registration Act or State Cooperative Acts to ensure institutional recognition. Statement 2 is incorrect because CLFs are autonomous, community-managed institutions governed by their own executive committees elected by member SHGs, not appointed by the District Rural Development Agency.
Consider the following statements regarding Impact of NRLM on women's political agency and local governance participation:
1. The Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) was formally launched by the Ministry of Rural Development in June 2011 to replace the erstwhile Swarnajayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana.
2. The 2015 NRLM revised operational guidelines include provisions for the automatic induction of SHG leaders into the District Planning Committee, which serves as the primary body for local legislative drafting.
3. The National Rural Livelihoods Mission encompasses the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, which provides for the direct transfer of political campaign funds to the bank accounts of elected women representatives in Gram Panchayats.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as DAY-NRLM was launched by the Ministry of Rural Development in June 2011 to restructure the Swarnajayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana (SGSY) into a demand-driven, professional mission. Statement 2 is incorrect because there is no provision in NRLM guidelines for the automatic induction of SHG leaders into District Planning Committees, which are constitutional bodies under Article 243ZD. Statement 3 is incorrect as the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana is a financial inclusion scheme for banking services, and no government policy provides for the transfer of political campaign funds to elected representatives.
Consider the following statements regarding Role of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRI) in SHG-VO (Village Organization) coordination:
1. The 1992 Constitutional Amendment Act established the SHG-VO coordination cell within the District Planning Committee, which serves as the primary funding agency for all NRLM-linked village infrastructure projects.
2. The National Rural Livelihoods Mission provides for the direct transfer of funds from the Ministry of Rural Development to the Gram Panchayat bank accounts for the purpose of SHG revolving fund distribution.
3. The Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) framework encourages the Village Organization (VO) to present its micro-credit plan during the Gram Sabha meetings held under the Panchayati Raj system.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 3 is correct as the DAY-NRLM framework mandates VOs to present their micro-credit plans in Gram Sabhas to ensure social audit and convergence with PRI-led development. Statement 1 is incorrect because the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act (1992) pertains to the devolution of powers to PRIs, not the creation of SHG-VO coordination cells, and NRLM funds are routed through the Society for Elimination of Rural Poverty (SERP) or State Rural Livelihood Missions, not District Planning Committees. Statement 2 is incorrect because NRLM funds are transferred directly to the bank accounts of the SHGs or VOs, bypassing the Gram Panchayat's own financial accounts to maintain the autonomy of the SHG movement.
Consider the following statements regarding Vulnerability mapping and targeting methodology under NRLM:
1. The NRLM guidelines suggest that at least 70% of the households identified through the PIP process should be included in the Self Help Group network within the first three years of implementation.
2. The Gram Sabha holds the authority to validate the final list of identified vulnerable households generated through the PIP process conducted by the Village Organization.
3. The Social Inclusion Strategy of NRLM incorporates the 'Vulnerability Reduction Fund' to provide immediate financial support to the most marginalized households identified during the mapping phase.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Under NRLM, the Participatory Identification of Poor (PIP) process ensures that at least 70% of identified households are mobilized into SHGs within three years to ensure rapid outreach. The Gram Sabha serves as the final authority to validate the PIP list, ensuring transparency and community ownership, while the Vulnerability Reduction Fund is a core component of the Social Inclusion Strategy designed to provide immediate financial assistance to the most marginalized households to mitigate shocks.
Consider the following statements regarding NRLM's Aajeevika Skills Development Programme (ASDP) framework:
1. The Ministry of Rural Development provides a relaxation in the upper age limit to 45 years for women, candidates from Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups, and persons with disabilities.
2. The Aajeevika Skills Development Programme utilizes a Public-Private Partnership model to involve Project Implementing Agencies in the delivery of vocational training.
3. Post-placement support for candidates trained under the programme includes a monthly incentive of 1,000 rupees for placement within the state of domicile.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the DDU-GKY (the successor framework to ASDP) mandates an age relaxation up to 45 years for these specific vulnerable groups to ensure inclusive skilling. Statement 2 is correct because the program operates on a PPP model, partnering with Project Implementing Agencies (PIAs) to bridge the skill gap through industry-aligned vocational training. Statement 3 is correct as the scheme provides post-placement support of Rs. 1,000 per month for candidates placed within their state of domicile, and Rs. 2,000 per month for those placed outside their state, to cover initial relocation and sustenance costs.
Consider the following statements regarding Role of Bank Sakhis and Business Correspondent (BC) Sakhis in financial inclusion:
1. The Business Correspondent Sakhi framework operates under the 2019 Digital India Act, which classifies these agents as permanent employees of the District Rural Development Agency with full pensionary benefits.
2. The Bank Sakhi program is governed by the 2016 SHG-Bank Linkage Policy, which grants these individuals the authority to approve micro-credit applications up to 5 lakh rupees without prior verification from the sponsoring bank branch.
3. The BC Sakhi initiative, launched by the Uttar Pradesh State Rural Livelihood Mission in 2020, provides a monthly fixed stipend for the first six months to support the initial operational setup of digital banking kiosks.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 3 is correct as the Uttar Pradesh government launched the BC Sakhi initiative in 2020 under the State Rural Livelihood Mission, providing a monthly stipend of Rs 4,000 for six months to support digital banking operations. Statement 1 is incorrect because BC Sakhis are not government employees or part of the Digital India Act; they act as banking agents for commercial banks and operate on a commission-based model. Statement 2 is incorrect because Bank Sakhis serve as intermediaries to facilitate financial services and awareness, but they possess no legal authority to independently approve micro-credit loans, which remains the sole prerogative of the lending bank branch.
Consider the following statements regarding SHG federations: Cluster Level Federations (CLF) and Block Level Federations (BLF) governance:
1. The 2011 NRLM framework includes provisions for the BLF to function as a banking correspondent, allowing it to provide direct insurance services to members through the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana.
2. The Community Investment Fund (CIF) is transferred from the NRLM to the CLF, which then manages the internal lending processes for its member SHGs.
3. The National Rural Livelihoods Mission provides for the direct allocation of the Revolving Fund to the Block Level Federation, which then distributes these resources to individual SHGs based on their credit rating.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 2 is correct because the Community Investment Fund (CIF) is indeed routed through the Cluster Level Federation (CLF) to support internal lending and livelihood activities among member SHGs. Statement 1 is incorrect because while SHGs and their federations can act as Banking Correspondents (BC) Sakhis, the NRLM framework does not authorize BLFs to provide direct insurance services under PMJDY, as insurance products are provided by regulated financial institutions. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Revolving Fund (RF) is provided directly to eligible SHGs by the NRLM, not through the BLF, to strengthen their corpus and creditworthiness before they access bank loans.
Consider the following statements regarding Non-farm livelihood interventions and value chain development:
1. The Interest Subvention Scheme under NRLM provides for a uniform 7 percent interest rate on bank loans for all SHGs, with an additional 3 percent subvention for prompt repayment in 250 identified high-focus districts.
2. The Start-up Village Entrepreneurship Programme (SVEP), launched in 2016, serves as a sub-scheme under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-NRLM to support rural start-ups in non-farm sectors.
3. Under the Aajeevika Grameen Express Yojana, introduced in 2017, SHG members operate public transport services in backward blocks to provide safe and affordable connectivity.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the interest subvention scheme provides a uniform 7% rate for all SHGs across India, but the additional 3% prompt repayment incentive is available nationwide, not restricted to 250 districts. Statement 2 is correct as SVEP was launched in 2016 as a sub-scheme of DAY-NRLM to promote rural entrepreneurship in non-farm sectors through community-level support. Statement 3 is correct because the Aajeevika Grameen Express Yojana, launched in 2017, facilitates SHG members in operating public transport services to improve connectivity in rural areas.
Consider the following statements regarding Grading and audit protocols for SHG internal financial management:
1. Under the NRLM guidelines, an SHG is eligible for the first dose of Revolving Fund (RF) support after maintaining its books of accounts for a minimum period of three to six months.
2. The 2011 NRLM policy framework introduced the 'Grading Index 2.0', which links the release of the initial seed money directly to the SHG's registration under the Societies Registration Act of 1860.
3. The Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-NRLM framework incorporates the 'Panchasutra' principles, which include regular meetings, regular savings, regular internal lending, regular repayment, and regular bookkeeping as the core indicators for SHG grading.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as NRLM guidelines mandate a 3-6 month period of regular functioning and bookkeeping to ensure the SHG is credit-worthy before receiving the Revolving Fund. Statement 3 is correct because the 'Panchasutra' (regular meetings, savings, lending, repayment, and bookkeeping) remains the foundational metric for evaluating SHG performance and grading. Statement 2 is incorrect because SHGs under NRLM are typically formed as informal groups and are not required to register under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, to receive seed money or Revolving Funds.
Consider the following statements regarding Gender-sensitive budgeting and resource allocation in NRLM implementation:
1. The Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) was formally launched by the Ministry of Rural Development in June 2011 to replace the erstwhile Swarnajayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana.
2. Under the NRLM framework, the Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP) serves as a sub-component specifically designed to enhance the participation of women in agriculture through sustainable agro-ecological practices.
3. The NRLM financial architecture utilizes the Interest Subvention Scheme, which provides a 7% interest rate reduction for all SHGs, and this specific fiscal provision is managed directly by the Reserve Bank of India's regional offices.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as DAY-NRLM was launched in June 2011 by the Ministry of Rural Development, restructuring the Swarnajayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana. Statement 2 is correct because MKSP is a sub-component of NRLM specifically aimed at empowering women in agriculture through sustainable practices. Statement 3 is incorrect because, while the Interest Subvention Scheme provides support, it is implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development in coordination with banks, and the interest subvention is not a flat 7% for all SHGs, nor is it managed directly by RBI regional offices.
Consider the following statements regarding Community Resource Persons (CRP) role in social mobilization:
1. Community Resource Persons receive capacity-building training through the National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRDPR) to standardize the delivery of social mobilization modules across different states.
2. The CRP-Village Organization (VO) coordination mechanism allows for the monitoring of SHG performance indicators, such as regular savings and timely repayment of internal loans, through the 'Lakhpati Didi' initiative framework.
3. Data from the 2022-23 NRLM progress report indicates that over 4.5 lakh Community Resource Persons have been trained to support livelihood diversification and social inclusion at the village level.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as NIRDPR serves as the national nodal agency for capacity building, standardizing training modules for CRPs under DAY-NRLM. Statement 2 is correct because the CRP-VO framework integrates SHG performance monitoring, including financial discipline, which is a core pillar for achieving the 'Lakhpati Didi' objective of sustainable household income. Statement 3 is correct as the 2022-23 NRLM progress data confirms the scaling of the CRP network to over 4.5 lakh personnel to drive grassroots social inclusion and livelihood diversification.
Consider the following statements regarding Gender-sensitive budgeting and resource allocation in NRLM implementation:
1. The Aajeevika Skills Development Programme, launched in 2013, focuses on urban poverty alleviation and allocates 30% of its annual budgetary resources toward gender-neutral vocational training modules for rural youth.
2. The NRLM guidelines incorporate a Gender Resource Centre at the district level to facilitate the implementation of gender-sensitive budgeting and to monitor the socio-economic indicators of women-led SHGs.
3. As of the 2023-24 fiscal reporting, the NRLM has mobilized over 9.5 crore women into more than 87 lakh Self Help Groups across various states and union territories in India.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the Aajeevika Skills Development Programme (DDU-GKY) focuses on rural poverty alleviation, not urban, and does not mandate a 30% allocation for gender-neutral modules. Statement 2 is correct as NRLM guidelines mandate Gender Resource Centres at the district level to mainstream gender perspectives and monitor SHG progress. Statement 3 is correct, reflecting the Ministry of Rural Development's official data for the 2023-24 fiscal year, which confirms the mobilization of over 9.5 crore women into more than 87 lakh SHGs.
Consider the following statements regarding Role of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRI) in SHG-VO (Village Organization) coordination:
1. The 'Mission Antyodaya' survey, launched in 2017, utilizes data collected by SHG members to assist the Gram Panchayat in preparing the Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP).
2. The 2011 Socio-Economic and Caste Census serves as the official registry for the Gram Panchayat to determine the eligibility of SHG members for the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin benefits.
3. The 2005 Right to Information Act allows the Village Organization to act as the legal auditing authority for all financial transactions conducted by the Gram Panchayat during the annual budget cycle.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as Mission Antyodaya integrates SHG-led data collection to inform the Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP) for evidence-based planning. Statement 2 is incorrect because while the SECC 2011 provides the primary list for PMAY-G, the final selection and verification of beneficiaries are conducted by the Gram Sabha, not the SHG members themselves. Statement 3 is incorrect because the RTI Act, 2005 empowers citizens to seek information, but it does not designate Village Organizations as legal auditing authorities for Gram Panchayat financial transactions, which remains the responsibility of the state-appointed auditors or the Gram Sabha's social audit process.
Consider the following statements regarding SHG federations: Cluster Level Federations (CLF) and Block Level Federations (BLF) governance:
1. Governance structures within a CLF include a General Body consisting of representatives from all member SHGs and an Executive Committee elected for a tenure of two years.
2. The NRLM framework suggests that the BLF should maintain a dedicated office space to facilitate coordination between the Village Organizations and the district-level administrative machinery.
3. As of the 2023 operational guidelines, the CLF is responsible for monitoring the financial health of member SHGs through the MIS portal known as 'Livelihoods-NRLM'.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the CLF governance structure follows a three-tier model where the General Body comprises representatives from member Village Organizations, and the Executive Committee is elected for a fixed two-year tenure to ensure democratic accountability. Statement 2 is correct because the NRLM framework mandates BLFs to function as a bridge between grassroots institutions and district administration, requiring dedicated office space for effective coordination and service delivery. Statement 3 is correct as the 2023 operational guidelines emphasize the role of CLFs in digitizing SHG data and monitoring financial performance through the 'Livelihoods-NRLM' MIS portal to ensure transparency and credit linkage.
Consider the following statements regarding Financial inclusion indicators: Savings, credit, and insurance penetration in SHGs:
1. SHG insurance penetration is supported by the Aam Aadmi Bima Yojana, which offers a life cover of Rs. 75,000 and is currently administered by the Ministry of Finance for all rural self-help groups.
2. Under the financial inclusion roadmap, SHG members are eligible for the Atal Pension Yojana, which provides a fixed monthly pension of Rs. 5,000 for subscribers who join the scheme before age 45.
3. The National Rural Livelihood Mission incorporates the SHG-Bank Linkage model developed by NABARD in 1992, which currently restricts credit lending to groups with a minimum of 15 members.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the Aam Aadmi Bima Yojana has been merged into the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) and Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY), and it is administered by the Ministry of Finance, not specifically for SHGs. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Atal Pension Yojana allows subscribers to join up to the age of 40, not 45, and the pension amount is tiered (Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 5,000) based on contributions, not a fixed Rs. 5,000 for all. Statement 3 is incorrect because the SHG-Bank Linkage model typically requires a minimum of 5 to 10 members, and there is no upper restriction of 15 members; in fact, groups often consist of 10-20 members to ensure viability.
Consider the following statements regarding Digital financial literacy initiatives for SHG members:
1. The Financial Inclusion Fund, managed by the Ministry of Rural Development, provides for the distribution of point-of-sale devices to SHGs and is regulated by the National Payments Corporation of India.
2. The 'Saras Aajeevika Mela' serves as a platform for marketing SHG products and is associated with the 2017 launch of the Government e-Marketplace portal for direct public procurement.
3. The Aajeevika Skills Development Programme, launched in 2013, encompasses digital literacy modules for SHG entrepreneurs and is linked to the Aadhaar-enabled Payment System for wage settlements.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the Financial Inclusion Fund is managed by the RBI, not the Ministry of Rural Development. Statement 2 is incorrect because while Saras Aajeevika Mela promotes SHG products, it is not the platform linked to the 2017 GeM portal launch for SHGs; the GeM-SHG integration was launched later in 2019. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Aajeevika Skills Development Programme (DDU-GKY) focuses on skill training for rural youth, whereas digital literacy and financial inclusion for SHGs are primarily driven by the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-NRLM through initiatives like the 'Bank Sakhi' model.
Consider the following statements regarding Vulnerability mapping and targeting methodology under NRLM:
1. The DAY-NRLM utilizes the Participatory Identification of the Poor (PIP) process, which involves a community-based ranking of households based on social and economic indicators.
2. The Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) of 2011 serves as the primary instrument for real-time dynamic updating of the NRLM beneficiary list, replacing the need for annual community-based PIP exercises.
3. Under the NRLM framework, the vulnerability mapping process includes the identification of households facing specific challenges such as disability, landlessness, or being headed by a single woman.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as DAY-NRLM mandates the Participatory Identification of the Poor (PIP) process, where community members rank households based on locally defined vulnerability criteria to ensure inclusive targeting. Statement 3 is correct because the framework specifically prioritizes vulnerable groups, including households with disabled members, landless laborers, and female-headed households, to ensure they receive focused support. Statement 2 is incorrect because while SECC 2011 provides a baseline, it does not replace the PIP process; NRLM relies on continuous, community-led updates to capture real-time changes in household socio-economic status, which static census data cannot reflect.
Consider the following statements regarding Vulnerability mapping and targeting methodology under NRLM:
1. The Ministry of Rural Development launched the 'Mission Antyodaya' survey in 2017 to complement the NRLM vulnerability mapping by capturing data on infrastructure and livelihood gaps at the Gram Panchayat level.
2. The NRLM vulnerability mapping methodology incorporates the 'BPL Census of 2002' as the foundational dataset for determining the eligibility of households for the Interest Subvention Scheme in all states.
3. The National Rural Livelihoods Promotion Society (NRLPS) publishes a quarterly 'Vulnerability Index' that reclassifies all SHG members across India based on their annual income fluctuations exceeding ten percent.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as Mission Antyodaya was launched in 2017 to assess development gaps at the Gram Panchayat level, complementing NRLM's poverty targeting. Statement 2 is incorrect because NRLM uses the Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011 data, not the outdated BPL Census of 2002, for household identification. Statement 3 is incorrect because there is no such 'Vulnerability Index' published by NRLPS that reclassifies SHG members based on income fluctuations; instead, NRLM utilizes the Participatory Identification of Poor (PIP) process conducted by the community itself.